A medical leave of absence is a structured, institutionally recognized way for students to step away when health interferes with academic engagement. This guide explains how medical leaves work, what colleges consider when students return, and why readiness—not speed—shapes successful reentry.

When college doesn’t go as planned, a leave of absence can feel consequential. In reality, it can be a thoughtful pause that allows students to recover, rebuild readiness, and return better prepared to succeed.

When college doesn’t go as planned and a student has had to step away, getting back can feel like the goal. In reality, what matters most is readiness. This guide explores what meaningful college reentry requires after academic disruption and when transfer becomes part of a thoughtful, sustainable path forward.

Failing a college class can feel alarming, but it’s more common — and more recoverable — than many families realize. Drawing on decades of experience as university deans, Jennifer Stephan and Karen Flood explain why academic setbacks happen, how colleges respond, and how families can support students in regaining their footing.

When college doesn’t go as planned, many families fear that something has gone irreversibly wrong. In reality, academic and emotional struggles in college are far more common — and far more recoverable — than most parents realize. Drawing on decades of experience as university deans, we explain why students struggle, how recovery happens, and what families can do to support their student’s path forward.

The decision to transfer isn’t always easy—but it can be a powerful step toward a more fulfilling college experience. It’s a brave, bold move toward finding a better fit. Transfer students often arrive at their new colleges with direction, commitment, and purpose. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already deep in the process, this guide offers step-by-step support to help you navigate the transfer process with clarity and confidence.

We have 60 years of experience supporting college students to manage academic crises as deans at Harvard University, Wellesley College, and Tufts University. Beyond individualized student support, we run the academic review and standing processes at our institutions and help students facing disciplinary sanctions, so we know exactly how these processes work and how to navigate them best. If your student is facing an academic crisis or disruption to their education, we are the experts with the insider’s view you want in your corner.